Tension reached a boiling point in Lafiagi town, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, on Monday, as enraged youths set the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) office ablaze and invaded the Emir’s palace, protesting what they described as rampant abductions and worsening insecurity.
The unrest was sparked by the reported disappearance of a popular Point-of-Sale (POS) operator and two others, allegedly taken away by men suspected to be NDLEA operatives. Eyewitnesses say the victims were picked up in the early hours of the day under unclear circumstances.
Within hours, hundreds of youths took to the streets, accusing security operatives of illegal arrests and enforced disappearances. The protest spiraled into chaos as demonstrators stormed the NDLEA office in the town and set it on fire, destroying documents, vehicles, and equipment.
In a dramatic escalation, the crowd moved to the palace of the Emir of Lafiagi, Alhaji Mohammed Kudu Kawu, chanting angry slogans and demanding answers from traditional authorities. Security operatives reportedly fired warning shots to disperse the crowd, but the youths stood their ground, insisting on accountability.
“This is no longer a joke. Our brothers are being taken away like thieves without explanation. We demand justice now!” shouted one protester, who identified himself as Ibrahim Adamu.
Local sources say the kidnapped POS agent was known for helping residents with daily transactions in the cash-strapped community, and his sudden disappearance fueled suspicions of official misconduct.
The Kwara State Police Command and NDLEA have yet to issue an official statement as of press time. However, tension remains high, with additional security deployed to restore calm.
Meanwhile, civil society groups are calling for an urgent investigation into the incident, warning that failure to address the rising mistrust between communities and security agencies could lead to further unrest.
The developments come amid growing national concerns over rising insecurity, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, where law enforcement is often accused of high-handedness and abuse of power.
As the situation unfolds, the people of Lafiagi—and indeed, all Nigerians—wait to see if justice will be served or if the flames of frustration will continue to spread.
Source: @Sahara Reporters
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